Simple Ways to Improve your Home

The old saying goes, 'home is where the heart is', but if the past few years have taught us anything, it is that sometimes we have to spend more time at home whether we would like to or not. Home improvements can increase not only the value of your home but also your own satisfaction with your surroundings.

According to a study by peer-to-peer lending company Zopa, some of the home improvements which deliver the best returns on investment include: building a conservatory, landscaping the garden, re-finishing the exterior of your home, building an extension, refurbishing your roof, and laying new carpets.

You don't need to spend thousands or essentially tear apart your home, however. Below are a few simple ways to improve your home instead, which also don't cost the earth:

1. Replace old doors

Particularly older project homes will often be lacking when it comes to their internal doors. Many pre-war houses suffer from heavy doors that have been painted repeatedly and often in garish colours. One simple way to enhance the look of your interior is to add new doors. We offer a variety of beautiful doors, from traditional styles in natural wood finishes to modern glazed options in smart grey or soft white. Glazed or mirrored doors particularly work well in enhancing a smaller interior by giving the illusion of added space.

2. Add interest to a garden

Did you know that landscaping a garden can really increase the value of your home if implemented well? Adding decorative aggregates such as blush pink pebbles, purple-hued slate chippings or natural native gravel will easily separate flower beds and grassy areas from walkways and paths. Aggregates are not terribly expensive and are very simple to put down, especially when compared with block or slab paving.

3. Light the way

Adding lights - both indoors and outdoors - can really elevate any space. Brighter areas tend to look bigger and more spacious than darker ones, and light is known to boost your mood. It's why we usually feel much happier in the summer than during the darker UK winter days. Adding outdoor lights can give a luxurious effect and add interest to an otherwise dark outside space.

4. Create a seating area outside

Adding decking can be an inexpensive way to add interest to your outside area, especially when compared with the more traditional patio. We offer a selection of wood and composite decking in a variety of natural and contemporary colours. Darker decking particularly will really enhance the look of the surrounding greenery. Finish your outdoor space with comfortable seating or low-maintenance artificial grass. Adding a user-friendly outdoor space not only enhances the look of your home decoration but will also add value.

5. Conserve heat indoors

It's not as simple or fun to think about as creating an outdoor space, getting new doors, or adding decorative lighting, but it is important. With the help of a qualified builder, adding insulation and damp-proofing your home can be managed at a reasonably low cost and will truly enhance your home restoration efforts. The right materials installed correctly should also help cut energy bills and keep your house warmer in the winter and cooler during the summer.

Have we given you some ideas for improving your home decoration and exterior in a few simple ways? For additional help or if you have any queries, why not contact our friendly staff. George Hill has been a family-run business since 1919, and we continue to strive to help families create their ideal spaces today. Please contact us to discuss your home improvement project and we'll be happy to help you in any way we can.